Managing Director of Operations

Reading Assist

Managing Director of Operations, (MDO)

Summary

Reading Assist is partnering with Bob Madonna (Diversified Services LLC) on a search for a Managing Director of Operations, (MDO) a successful nonprofit in Wilmington, DE that has been serving the community for over 35 years.

Reading Assist has supported struggling readers through their accredited structured literacy program, rooted in the science of reading. They serve K–3 students across Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Washington, D.C. who are in the lowest 25% for reading proficiency. They consistently help them achieve reading success.

Reading Assist’s strategic ambition is to become the leading regional expert and trusted provider of reading instruction for young, struggling readers. They intend to grow to serve 10,000 students with 90% reaching benchmark in foundational reading skills within one year.

Reading Assist is a high-impact, multi-state literacy organization on a path to serve 10,000 students annually with 90% achieving foundational reading success.

We are seeking a Managing Director of Operations (MDO) to build and lead the operational infrastructure required to scale our impact. This is a critical executive role for a leader who thrives at the intersection of strategy, systems, and mission-driven work.

The MDO will play a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s next phase of growth, ensuring that systems, structures, and resources scale alongside programmatic impact.

Location: Wilmington, DE (Hybrid – minimum 3 days in office)
Reports to: Chief Executive Officer
Status: Full-time, Exempt

Position Overview

The Managing Director of Operations (MDO) is a senior leader responsible for ensuring Reading Assist operates effectively, efficiently, and in full alignment with its mission. As a member of the senior leadership team, the MDO partners closely with the CEO to translate organizational priorities into strong systems, disciplined financial management, and high-performing operational practices.

This role oversees finance, human resources, contracts, compliance, technology, facilities, and administrative systems — building the infrastructure that enables staff and programs to thrive.

The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker and skilled operator who brings clarity, structure, and accountability while maintaining a collaborative and mission-centered approach.

Responsibilities

Organizational Operations

· Oversee a complex portfolio of federal, state, and philanthropic funding streams, including AmeriCorps, ensuring rigorous compliance while enabling operational flexibility and growth.

· Lead and oversee day-to-day operational functions across finance, HR, compliance, IT, and facilities

· Design, implement, and continuously improve systems, policies, and workflows

· Identify operational risks and inefficiencies and implement practical solutions

· Develop and monitor key performance indicators and organizational dashboards

· Strengthen cross-department coordination and communication

· Evaluate and manage vendor relationships and outsourcing opportunities

· Create, maintain and implement organizational policies

Financial Leadership & Compliance

· Oversee compliance with federal, state, local, foundation, and grant requirements (AmeriCorps experience preferred)

· Manage the development and execution of contracts, MOUs, and organizational agreements

· Lead annual budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes

· Monitor performance against budget and provide variance analysis

· Partner with the CEO, Director of Finance, and Finance Committee on financial strategy

· Ensure strong internal controls and audit readiness

· Support cost efficiency initiatives and responsible financial stewardship

Human Resources & Talent Management

· Oversee recruitment, onboarding, performance management, compensation, and benefits

· Manage high-volume, fast-paced recruiting environment for annual tutor and AmeriCorps member hiring

· Review and evaluate benefit plans annually in partnership with leadership and brokers

· Support managers with employee relations and performance matters

· Ensure compliance with employment laws and nonprofit best practices

· Strengthen systems that support staff engagement, accountability, and retention

Technology & Infrastructure

· Oversee organizational technology systems, data management, and cybersecurity practices

· Lead and optimize a high-volume annual recruitment operation, including AmeriCorps members and tutors across multiple states

· Partner with IT vendors to ensure secure and reliable infrastructure

· Manage facilities, leases, safety, and office operations

Leadership & Strategy

· Serve as an active member of the senior leadership team

· Provide operational analysis and insight to inform decision-making

· Prepare reports and dashboards for leadership and Board review

· Lead and mentor operational staff, fostering continuous improvement

Occasional travel is required to attend events within Reading Assist’s service area. Some evening and weekend hours may be required. This position is based in Wilmington, DE, and candidates are expected to work in the Wilmington office on a hybrid schedule.

Core Competencies

· Quality - Applies feedback to improve performance; demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; displays commitment to excellence; looks for ways to improve and promote quality; monitors own work to ensure quality.

· Communication - Ability to effectively express thoughts and ideas in written and oral form; actively listens and requests clarification when needed; responds well to questions; keeps others adequately informed; selects and uses appropriate communication methods.

· Teamwork - Balances team and individual responsibilities; contributes to building a positive team spirit; exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; gives and welcomes feedback; puts success of team above own interests.

· Continuous Learning - Assesses own strengths and areas of development; pursues training and development opportunities; seeks feedback to improve performance; shares expertise with others; and strives to continuously build knowledge and skills.

· Initiative - Asks for help when needed; looks for and takes advantage of opportunities; seeks increased responsibilities; takes independent actions and calculated risks; undertakes self-development activities; volunteers readily.

· Cultural Competency - Shows knowledge, respect, and sensitivity for cultural differences; demonstrates awareness of personal social location; exhibits continuous learning practices in DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging); promotes a harassment-free environment and culture of belonging.

Experience, Skills and Competencies

· Commitment to Reading Assist’s mission and values

· Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in business, finance, or related field preferred

· 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in operations, nonprofit management, or administration

· Demonstrated experience overseeing finance, HR, and operational systems

· Experience managing AmeriCorps or other federal grant programs preferred

· Strong financial acumen, including budget development and forecasting

· Knowledge of nonprofit compliance and grant-funded environments

· Strong data analysis and performance management skills

· Excellent negotiation, vendor management, and contract oversight skills

· Exceptional communication and organizational leadership abilities

WORK ENVIRONMENT & BENEFITS:

• Location in Wilmington, De with hybrid after onboarding is complete.
• Supportive, mission-driven team environment with opportunities for professional growth.
• Competitive salary, ($100,000 to $130,000) and benefits, including health insurance, paid time off, and retirement contributions.

DISCLAIMER

This position description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Additional duties and responsibilities expected to be performed as necessary.

An Equal Opportunity Employer
Reading Assist is an equal opportunity employer. This application will not be used for limiting or excluding any applicant from consideration for employment on a basis prohibited by local, state, or federal law. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation in the application and/or interview process should notify a representative of the organization.

• Reading Assist Diversified Services LLC

www.readingassist.org Robert, (Bob) Madonna

100 West 10th Street, Suite 910 Managing Partner

Wilmington, DE 19801 bobmadonna@verizon.net

Note: Interesting parties should send their resume, and cover letter detailing why they are interested in the position, and what makes them qualified for the position to Bob Madonna at the email address above.

Pay: $100,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Wilmington, DE 19801